A comprehensive recreation master plan was presented, highlighting significant investments in local parks and athletic facilities. The plan, which incorporated feedback from over 150 community members, outlined priorities for facilities, programming, and operational needs. A major focus was on Knight Park, where a $2.5 million investment was proposed. This plan aims to modernize facilities to better serve community needs, including the conversion of natural grass fields into multi-sport artificial turf and the construction of an eight-lane rubberized track. The proposal also includes enhancements like a new concession stand, spectator bathrooms, and improved lighting systems, all designed to expand access and safety for community events.

Concerns about the current state of the athletic complex were raised, citing poor drainage, inadequate lighting, and limited facility usage as barriers to participation in events. The proposal intends to address these issues by reorienting fields for better use and improving access for students and community members. A partnership with local schools was discussed to maximize the use of existing athletic spaces, with plans to acquire and repurpose the former Good Shepherd Catholic School for additional community facilities.

The Good Shepherd site, a 45,000-square-foot facility, presents an opportunity for community enhancement. Discussions emphasized the need for cosmetic updates, bathroom renovations, and enhanced lighting and signage to ensure the facility is welcoming and well-maintained. A shared service agreement between the school district and the borough was proposed to clarify the utilization of available spaces.

Concerns about funding for these projects were addressed, with the borough acting as the borrower for a bond in collaboration with the school district. The financial plan includes $10.5 million for school field upgrades, $2 million for acquiring the Good Shepherd site, and $2.5 million for park improvements. Community events are planned to engage the public further, focusing on themes derived from community feedback, particularly regarding turf concerns.

The potential purchase of the Good Shepherd building was explored, with discussions on financing options, including the issuance of a 20, 25, or 30-year bond, favoring a 20-year option for financial responsibility. The estimated timeline for completing field improvements is seven to nine months, dependent on material availability and potential supply chain disruptions. Community organizations expressed interest in accessing spaces within Good Shepherd for programs, particularly for evening activities when volunteers are available. There was a recognition of the need for dedicated storage and meeting areas, highlighting a widespread challenge regarding organizational space within the community.

The council encouraged organizations to submit specific requests for space and resources, emphasizing the importance of gathering feedback to inform service planning. Engaging in this planning phase is seen as crucial for establishing a long-term vision for shared facility use. This dialogue also touched on the possibility of renovating Good Shepherd to serve as a modern school building, acknowledging the financial implications of upgrading older facilities.

Knight Park’s priorities were discussed, with a focus on drainage issues and field layout. Creative solutions, such as incorporating watershed ponds or rain gardens, were suggested to address drainage problems. The need for a playground suitable for older children was also highlighted, reflecting community feedback that emphasized immediate improvements to existing park equipment. The role of the Night Park Board of Trustees was scrutinized, with some participants expressing skepticism about its effectiveness and a perceived disconnect between the board’s activities and community needs.

The meeting also addressed the potential for the Good Shepherd building to serve as a public health resource center, providing assistance with food insecurity and hygiene products. Community support for this idea was strong, with discussions around the involvement of local organizations in running such initiatives. The expansion of the Panther Pantry was discussed, aiming to centralize resources for families and establish satellite drop-off points at schools, including Good Shepherd. Volunteer support was emphasized as important to the initiative’s success.